Kristen was impressed by the Lord that her theme for 2014 was “victory” based upon Psalm 98:1 – “O sing to the Lord a new song for He has done wonderful things, His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him.” And we as a family had hoped and prayed and pleaded with God that that victory would mean full healing on this earth. But God in His infinite wisdom decided that victory for Kristen would be full health and healing in heaven where there will be no more suffering, sorrow, death, pain, or tears (Rev. 21). Kristen my beloved bride of 22 ½ years, my best friend, ministry partner, wife, mother of my children and lover went home to be with Jesus, her Master and Savior this morning, January 22, 2014. As I was reading the devotional Streams in the Desert with her as we do almost every morning, just the two of us, she breathed her last breath. It is a moment I will cherish forever.
The following is from the obituary: Funeral services will be held at Southeast Christian Church on January 25, 2014 at 11AM. Visitation will be held on January, 24, from 11AM-2PM; 4-8PM and from 9-10:30am on Saturday at the church.
There will be a funeral service on Monday, January 27 at 1pm with visitation after 11am at Northfield Christian Fellowship, Tremont, IL with burial to follow.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Kristen Sauder be made to Life In Abundance International, 1605 East Elizabeth Street, Suite 1069, Pasadena, CA 91104 or online at http://www.lifeinabundance.org/donate.
We greatly appreciate and need your ongoing prayers. We all loved deeply and therefore we are all grieving deeply.
Love, Kurt
Amy says
Kurt, our hearts are aching for you and your dear kids. That Streams in the Desert entry was for you, dear friend.
The David Brooks Family says
Dear Sauder Family,
We are shedding tears of sorrow …We are so sorry for this loss. We Love you all and are praying God’s peace over you all….
The Brooks
Sheri Smith says
So sorry for yours and your families loss Kurt. She will be greatly missed.
Thoughts and prayers for all of you thru this difficult time.
Linda Berge says
Kurt and Kids ~ You’re wife/mom held a very special place in my heart. I am praying for each of you and will continue to do so. Kristen was a special, special lady and inspired so many. Keeping you close to my heart and in my prayers.
Minette & Gary Polsgrove says
Kurt and Family: We have watched and prayed throughout your journey. We are praising God that Kristin is home with no pain! You are blessed in that you know how to love deep. Our heartfelt prayers will not cease for you and your family. God Bless!
Patty Grimes says
With deepest sympathy for you and your family.
Doug Burnett says
Kurt ,
My heart aches for you and the children. I lost my precious wife Mary to cancer in July 2008. I’ll always be grateful for my church family at Southeast for the love and prayers during and after Mary’s journey. While reading Kristen’s last blog I could see many of the things that Mary ascribed to. Please know that me and my daughters are in fervent prayer for you and your children. I know things are probably a blur at the moment but please let me know if I can help you in any way.
Your Brother in Christ
Doug Burnett
850-687-4847
Trent Family says
So sorry for your loss. Kristen’s life was a shining example of Christ’s pure love, and her selfless devotion to Him! She will be truely missed. Praying for your family during this time. May you rest in the Father’s peace.
James Overstreet says
Kurt and Family:
I share sad and happy tears with you. Kurt, your wife is such an inspiration to me, my wife and my daughter Hailey (who adores your dauther Ivy). Through the ministry you and Kristen have graciously shared with all of us, I say Thank You! Thank you for hearing God’s call to minister to us. Kristen will be deeply missed, but I know that her ministry, as well as yours Kurt, will prosper and blossom into more great things. Kristen’s short time here (too short, but well lived and served) and the ministry/legacy she leaves us is a gift and it will continue through the lives of the many thousands of people that will hear and be touched by her service to the Lord. My family will continue to pray for you and your family during this time. Big Bear Hug for you brother!
martha hamilton says
Kurt thanks so much for sharing this. Lee and I are praying for you and the kids and will see you Friday. We love you guys – Martha
Jillian says
So sorry to hear of your loss. Praying for you and your children as I cannot imagine your loss. May the knowledge that Kristen is at peace with the LORD bring you comfort.
Clyde and Margaret Gourley says
Kurt, you and the family are in our prayers.
We are sincerely saddened by this news; we know that she will never be in pain or have any suffering again. The world lost a great lady who was loved by many – we loved her the minute we met her. The Sauder family is always in our thoughts. The one consolation you and the family has is that beautiful Kristen is in heaven with her Savior.
All of our love and prayers are with you and the family.
Love, Marge and Clyde
Emlyn Riggle says
Dear Kurt, Olivia, Drew, Ivy and Ellie. I just don’t have enough words to tell you how much David and I and our family hurt with you and for you. Your sweet bride and mother was one of the most precious, Godly, faithful, loving, encouraging woman we have ever known! It is an honor to know her as a friend and sister-in-Christ! Our hearts hurt as we miss her so much already. We GIVE GOD THANKS and GLORY for the gift of her life; for the incredible and powerful impact she has made in the lives of sooooooo many, including ours! Please know that you all will CONTINUE to be in our PRAYERS and please, please let us know if there is anything at all that we can do for any of you! MUCH LOVE to you all! David, Emlyn, Michala, Dawson and Evan
Kim Sunseri Burger says
I am praying for you and your family. Your family has been a great testimony to us all. Kristin was an example of the type of woman we should all be. I wish for you and your family peace, blessings, understanding and comfort through the days ahead. Kurt you and Kristin had the love of a lifetime and showed us how to walk faithfully in Christ. Thank you!
Jill Renner says
Chris and I are praying for you and your family during this most difficult time. I wept driving home from school today for you…for us. Kristen touched so many lives for Jesus. We have lost one of the best! But I am oh so happy for her! Thankful for the glorious hope we have!
Matthew Pryor says
No words can express my sympathies. If there’s anything we can do in addition to the prayers we’re offering, don’t hesitate to ask. We love you guys!
Sharon & Dave says
We love you, Kurt and family, and are praying for you. We can’t even imagine what you are going through, but we know His Love Endures Forever. Kristen has finished the race well and taught us not only how to live, but how to die. You have been and continue to be in our prayers.
Melissa Steineker says
Kurt,
My husband, Lee, and I have been honored to hear you and Kristen speak on marriage several times over the years. We have been and will continue to lift you up in prayer. I praise God for victory in Jesus and am asking Him to comfort you as you grieve.
Steve Pollock says
Praying for you and kids and family. Love you guys so much.
Pollocks
Jody says
I will be praying for you and Kristen’s family as you celebrate her life.
Laurie says
I did not know Kristen or your family, but we are family in the God-sense of the word and in a Southeast sense. I am deeply touched this day by her passing. Praying for all who loved her and will miss her greatly.
Amanda Roederer says
Praying this along side of you all Kurt. What a faith, what an inspiration, what a mother and what a sweet sweet spirit. So thankful for your family and their modeling the way of discipleship and true faith in Christ. Looking for ways to praise him today for Kristen : ) Love and prayers to you all!!!
VICTORY!!!!!
Stacy Small says
Kurt, we are brokenhearted for you all. The prayers continue.
With love…Dan and Stacy Small
Debbie & Les McPhearson says
God bless you Kurt & family. You are in our prayers and we love you.
Darin & Angela says
Kurt,
We can’t express enough how deeply saddened we are of Kristen’s passing! We rest assured, though, that she’s with the Savior and no longer in pain. To Him be the glory! We love you and your family and continue to pray for you all!
DB & Ang
Michael & Melissa Caperton says
Our thoughts and prayers are sent your way for you and your family.
Michael and Melissa Caperton
Jennifer Melloan says
Kurt, I can not fathom the pain you are experiencing right now, but we pray that God gives you comfort through this time of grief. What great news that she believed so faithfully in God and that she is now in a place without pain. She was an inspiration to all who had the fortune of knowing her. We know her legacy leaves its mark on many!
May God bless and comfort you!
Teresa Boling says
Sauder family….our hearts ache for your great loss. Praying for all of you.
Mark & Lesley McFerron says
“Every heartache you go through, with open arms God waits for you.” Part of a poem by Susan L. Carlson.
Kent and Anna Buehrer says
Kurt and family: We, along with many others here in Tremont, are lifting you all up in prayer. God loves you and He promises in Isaiah 49 that he will not forget you…you are engraved in the palm of His hand. Rest in that promise.
Love,
Kent and Anna Buehrer
Sarah says
Dear Sauder Family,
We have never met, but you are all in our prayers. We have heard many wonderful things about Kristen and the Godly example she set for those around her. Her love for Jesus and legacy of faith lives on, even in our home, where we use her book to teach our baby girl about God’s word.
Jesus’ blessings and peace during this difficult time,
The Fields
Eric and Heather Gentry says
Kurt,
Our prayers are with you and the children. May the peace of Christ sustain you as you wait for our glorious reunion.
Linda and Tom Stosberg says
Kristen is where she longed to be…with the Lord Jesus; no more pain and no more tears.As we who have lost loved ones know it is never easy to let them go and she will be missed here by her precious family and all who were blessed to know her. She truly exemplified the meaning of motherhood…she was an amazing woman and her children, the fruits of her life are her testimony to that fact. Also, one look into Kirk’seyes told you what a wonderful wife she was.Please pray for Kirk and the children….it was a hard fought battle and they are surely exhausted.Thank you Lord for Kristen…give her a big hug for us.
Jane Schroeder says
It has been a part of my morning routine to check Kristen’s Blog and night time routine to pray for all of you for quite some time now. I didn’t know Kristen personally but I knew who she was in Christ and all day have tried to image her reunion with the Lord. Healed, Healthy and Whole with her beautiful smile and opened arms. Even so, there is a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes, but that is for her dear family left here on earth. I will continue to pray.
Patty Grobmeier says
Dear Kurt and family: My heart is with sorrow at the passing of Kristen because she will be truly missed. I am only sorry that I did not get to know her better wgen she was here on earth. She is one of a kind and nobody will ever replace her because she was a true warrior and she never complained. That is true character and strength that GOD gave her and she touched everyone’s lives including mine. It has made me a tronger person in faith and walking the faith also. When I feel pain some days I think of what Kristen went through and I stop complaining and keep on trucking no matter how bad I feel. She is now with her prescious SAVIOUR and there will no longer be any suffering or pain. Until the day we meet her in HEAVEN we will miss her but we will know she is with Jesus. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY and may you be comforted in his loving arms and know that you are loved by everyone. I will pray for your family and you. Love In Christ Patty
Doug and Angie Shull says
Dear Kurt and children,
You have our deepest sympathy. You are in our prayers. She is dancing with Our Lord in heaven.
Doug and Angie Shull
Morton, IL
Robin and Jerry Knapp says
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. You and Kristen are such an inspiration to all. May God bless you all.
Sherry Phelps says
Kurt, our family is heartbroken for yours. Kristen was incredibly sweet, loving, generous, and kind, and she will be greatly missed. She was a source of great comfort for us after my grandson’s severe eye accident. You are, as always, in our prayers.
Sheila says
We are so sorry for your loss….thoughts and prayers to your family during this difficult time.
Rambo says
Will be praying for you and your family Kurt. I am so sorry.
George Fields says
One of God’s best daughters that I’ve ever met. What a blessing is was and will be when I see her OverThere.
Prayers continue for you and your family, Kurt. Love you.
Lori says
Dear Sauder Family,
My heart breaks for you all. I had the pleasure of meeting your sweet Ellie through the Hughes family. Lifting you all up in prayer!
Colleen Poorbaugh Williams says
Kurt my heart hurts so much for you and your family. sending my thought and prayers. May God hold you all close in his arms.
Colleen
Mary Vandenbark says
After following Kristin’s blog for the past year, I was continually amazed at her unfailing faith. She is a true inspiration to all. Our deepest sympathy and prayers during this time. Todd, Mary and family.
Jody Vance Dudley says
We are praying for you and your family, Kurt.
Marquita Haydon says
Kurt,
Our prayers will continue for you and the kids. So sadden this morning when I heard I pulled out my “Seeking God” DVD and watched as Kristen taught about going to her tent of meeting. What joy She reflected in that time she spent with Him. Her stories, her life, and encouragement has touched my life in so many ways. Praying His peace and comfort hold you in His arms.
Heather and Shawn O'Connnor says
Prayers for you and your family! Thank you always for your example during good and hard times!
Mike & Pat says
Our hearts ache & weep for you Dear Ones as we remember, always will, the beautiful example of Godliness that was so Kristen/Mom & your entire family. We are forever grateful to have been loved on & to have learned so much about Jesus from Kristen’s teachings (God Seekers) but mostly by the way she lived her life. Our loss; Heaven’s gain!! When we ALL get to Heaven, what a day of REJOICING that will be. Our prayers lift you to the Throne
Leslie says
Remembering the Sauder Family in prayer.
Kristen taught me the value of setting up and visiting my “tent of meeting”.
My bible, “Streams in the Desert” and “Jesus Calling” are all kept in my tent and I am learning to seek Him-and listen!
Thank you, Kristen, for loving Jesus and encouraging us to do the same.
Melody and Vic Malone says
Peace to your precious family. What a legacy Kristen has left.. to be carried on. In our prayers.
Sincerely..
The Malones
Mary says
I feel like someone just kicked me in the stomach. I can’t believe it and am so sorry for your loss. She taught me so much and brought me so much closer in my walk with Jesus. My only consolation is I can imagine her delight in seeing Him face to face today! Victory, indeed! Called aside. Please know you are being prayed for. For comfort and strength and peace. Again, so sorry for your loss. We all lost an incredible spiritual being among us here on earth.
Betty Draper says
Dear Kurt, you do not know me and I only met your wife through her blog, Praying for your prodigal a little over a year ago. So I was so shocked to read of her passing through my friend, Rose Netto who attends your church. Just reading a few of her post tonight my heart was encouraged as I read words penned from God through you wife. Now she see Him face to face…oh my how glorious that must be. Now you and your children face the grief that comes from losing a wife and mother. How hard it is to be left behind, it’s not glorious but a sad place. Yet reading what your wrote tells me you are a Psalm 1 man who will draw from the source in which you wife is basking in.
P.S. Our son is one of the fruits of prayer from Kristin blog…God has drawn him back and restoring his marriage. I will pray for you and your family. Betty Draper
Michael E. & SHARON Allen says
Kurt my heart and prayers are with you and the children tonight . I was blessed and honored to have had her cross my path on my journey home . She taught me how to follow God’s plan as a husband,just as you have showed and taught me how to strive to be God,s man . There is in each of us who knew her a sorrow and yet also greater joy for she is were we as belivers long to be.Her name is new in Him , but for us still here , she is Kristen Sauder and she is Abba’s child . Welcome home my sister I will see you soon.
Cindy Lampe-Clegg says
Kurt and Family,
Words seem so inadequate to express how deeply sorry I am for you. Kristin was an incredible woman who has impacted countless lives through her ministry and the Godly example she set for others to follow. Your family has been in my prayers throughout her fight and will continue to be as you grieve.
Allyson Robinson says
I was fortunate enough to attend one of kristens Bible studies… she was unbelievable and it was one of the most special things I’ve ever been a part of. I am devastated of this news, however I know God has such a special place for her in heaven. I pray for her children and husband tonight. Kristen… go on and do even better things in heaven..if thats possible!! Kristen is Awesome!!!!! Prayers to the entire family. You all were so blessed to have her in your daily lives..God bless your family. Prayers.
Allyson Robinson and family
Michael and Sharon Allen says
Kurt you and yours are in my thoughts and prayers tonight . I was fortunate and blessed to have been there over the years , when your bride taught us how to be better men to our spouses and families . On those special saturdays when she came to teach.Just as you taught me how to strive to be God’s man , she taught me how to be that fpr my wife , children , and grandchildren . I often saw her input reflected in both you and Drew. I think as believers the best we can be is to impact His kingdom , which she truly did. So we mourn and rejoice . She will be missed . even though she now has a new name , but to my wife and I she will always be Khisten Sauder , Abba’s child .
Kevin and Valinda says
Kurt and family~
Praying for a peace that passes all understanding. Kristen was a mighty warrior for her Lord! Love to you all….
Kevin and Valinda
Liz and Ted Grider says
We have been following Kristen’ s blog since her cancer diagnosis. Ted and I have prayed for her and your family and will continue to lift you up as the Lord brings your family through this difficult parting. When I got home from work today, Ted told me, “Kristen Sauder has moved”. We will mourn the loss of her reflected light in this world, but look forward to joining her in her new home some day.
Nancy Brewer says
So sorry for Kurt for you and your children. I was able to do Kristen’s bible study on The 23rd Psalm. She was an awesome teacher! Praying for all of you!
Brooke says
I can’t say that I understand.
I can’t say that I agree.
But there’s one thing I can say
With absolute certainty:
She lived this life faithfully,
Steadfast in her love for Thee.
You have her now, she’s in Your arms,
Clothed in Victory.
To live is Christ, to die is gain.
May her impact never wane.
For it’s her legacy, a life devoted to Thee,
That we now carry.
The Lusher family grieves with you, and, while we aren’t sure what to pray for, we are lifting you and your family in prayers as we remember this true and faithful servant – Kristen Sauder.
Dale says
Kurt, I will cherish the memories of Kristen and so many good times together from the days back in Moody, LaGrange, Wheeling, and Bremen when it was first just us with our young wives and then little babies. And the more recent years in Louisville as our families got older. Kristen’s hospitality and kindness shown to us was surpassed only by her love for her own family and mostly her love for the Heavenly Father with whom she is now comfortably resting in his arms. Her life has been a wonderful reflection of Christ; and because of her I have often been blessed and encouraged. I will miss Kristen deeply, but also rejoice that she is with the Father.
David Kimani says
Kurt, am heartbroken for your loss but nevertheless rejoice knowing that Kirsten is with our Father in heaven. I shall never forget her from my first visit to the US, an amazing woman. You guys hold a special place in my heart. My family and I here in Kenya keep praying for you and the children that the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will be upon your hearts in Christ Jesus. God bless you brother
Lori McAtee says
Dear Kurt: I first got to know you and Kristen at the dentist office, and then enjoyed being part of the Oldham Campus. My heart aches for your loss. Kristen was a sweet soul. I know she is healed, and free from pain in Heaven. But, our selfish hearts still wanted her here. You have so many that care for you and your family. Count me in for praying for peace.
Stephen and Elizabeth Jeffries Tweed says
Kurt and family…we are grieving with you and praising the LORD for Kristen’s life and the model of faith she lived.
Nancy Feucht says
Oh Kurt, I am so very sorry. This is hard to grasp because we are so far away and won’t be able to attend services. But you and your family are on our hearts and in our prayers. I’m sharing Kristen’s blog on my FB page for the ladies in my Bible study as I had asked them to pray for Kristen last year. May we all learn and grow from her example of an abundant life. Sending love from Australia, Nancy (and my family)
Betty Adams says
She is at peace resting in the arms of God, no more pain, no more tears – only joy, unspeakable joy. I pray that this same peace washes you and your family.
Donna Davis says
Dear Kurt, I am Kelly’s Mom and dear Christy’s other Mom. I have been sitting here reading some of Kristen’s blogs. She certainly was a woman after God’s own heart. I can see why Christy feels they were soul sisters, because in so many ways they were alike, their faith bold and strong. Just think, she’s alive like she’s never been before because she is HOME with her heavenly Father. I told Kelly on the phone tonight that it seems strange after your families have been so close for so many years, I’ve never had the chance to meet the “Sauders”. Friends that I heard about so often and with so much love. Don and I will continue to pray for you and the children. Out hearts hurt for you during this time of grief. I know God will be with you every step of the way. What a wonderful, precious memory you’ll have of being alone with her reading a devotion. God Bless, Love, Donna and Don Davis
Erin Miller says
Dear Sauder family,
As I read this post my heart broke for your family and rejoiced for your sweet Kristen. I did not personally know her but she has been teaching and mentoring me through her blog throughout this year. My family and I have made her part of our family prayers since we first laid eyes on you both at Southeast Oldham Campus last December. Our first visit was your announcement to move from pastor to furthering your ministry and prayers were offered for medical tests for Kristen. Since that day she has been engrained on my heart and the hearts of my 2 little girls. We have shared every victory with her and learned how to be joyful in all circumstances. She has created in me a desire to share a more intimate walk with My Savior. So as I thank God for the short time I had to learn from her I will look forward to the friendship I will be able to have in our Heavenly home. As I read a devotional yesterday, Kristen came to mind because I know He speaks of her.
“The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.” (Revelation 3:21)
This is a promise to everyone who conquers, that is, who presses on in faith to the end (1 John 5:4), in spite of every threatening pain and luring pleasure. So, if you are a believer in Jesus, you will sit on the throne of the Son of God who sits on the throne of God the Father.
What a beautiful picture!
Your family will continue to be loved and prayed for.
Erin Miller
Phil Newton says
Our family had a burden for Kristen. Now we’ll have one for her family.
The Hunter Family says
We continue to be there for all the Sauders in prayer and whatever support you need during this grief journey. Kristen ministered throughout her illness and was an inspiration in spite of her battle. What a legacy she left in Olivia, Drew, Ivy, and Ellie. And you, Kurt. God’s love and peace to each of you.
Jean Field says
I am praying for you as you go through this high tide grief. Though I have met only some of you, and not Kristen, I have been deeply impressed with the strength and wisdom that has been all of yours, and the sweetness you have as a family. May you grow even stronger roots in the Lord during this most difficult time.
(I am Amy’s aunt in Chicago)
Vicki Feinn says
Dear Sauder Family,
I am praying you through. I am running beside you in seeking the Lord through this loss…I could easily write a whole page about Kristen…what a wonderful woman of God she was! Her vibrant love for Jesus lives on in a way that will touch generations. I remember in 2003 she gave a wonderful presentation to the homeschool mom’s retreat. It was so fitting and impacted my own “tent-of-meeting” moments. Those are treasures to me now…flashbacks of this great mentor, teacher, friend. We will all miss her and I promise that whenever my heart is reminded of her, to turn my thoughts into prayers…prayers for each one of you; prayers for those that have been watching your family live this thing out and that do not yet know the kindness of the Savior for themselves; prayers for her influence and impact to continue on.
Sending hugs…
Vicki Feinn
Stacy Fingar says
Kurt,
As I know that Kristen is dancing and worshiping in Heaven, my heart breaks for you and your family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Stacy
Ann B says
I am thankful for the opportunity to have met Kirsten while pursuing her study “God Seeker”. Her impact lives on in the lives of those who are seeking God, Further Still. Grateful for the time spent with such a beautiful soul. Her grace, passion, love of Jesus, sweetness, kindness-was her light here on earth. One encounter with Kristen, and her love of the Lord was imprinted on my heart.
To the Sauder family, take gentle care in your time of grief. Thoughts and prayers are with you for the journey. <3
Debbie Phelps says
I only knew Kristen for a short time ,she has a special place in my heart , I know how much she loved the Lord and her family, what a beautiful person inside and out. I’m sure God will say to her well done my good and Faithful servant.
My prayers for peace for the family.
How blessed I was to have known her.
Nancy Klopfenstein says
Oh Kurt….my heart is so saddened by this news, and yet rejoicing that your sweet Kristen is now in the presence of her Savior, and she has already heard those beautiful words from Him saying “Well done good and faithful servant!!” I never met Kristen, but I feel like I knew her through her beautiful journaling and writings that I read so often….she was and will continue to be an inspiration to so many of us…her beauty lives on in the lives of her loved ones…and all that she has shared with us…teaching us how to live victoriously through the deepest of storms…I was always soooo moved by her deep love for her Savior and her faithfulness and courage as she faced her life of suffering and pain….she has forever changed the world around her and made the name of our Jesus known to all who met her or read her blogs. She and your family have been in my prayers for so long and you will continue to be in my heart and prayers in the tough days and months to come…I love you guys….Nancy
Tammy says
Kurt, Olivia, Drew, Ivy and Ellie,
We are praying for you and your sweet family. I was talking to Henry yesterday about Mrs. Kristen and he said mommy did God make her a new home? 🙂 Praise God she is experiencing Victory.
Nothing can take away the pain that you are experiencing. It stinks and I hate it.
My dad passed a few years ago and it was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, but God walked every step with me as I experienced a hurt that was so deep only God could reach it.
Praying that God reaches to the depths of your soul and comforts you and your kids.
“When I said, ‘my foot is slipping, Your love O Lord supported me; when anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought joy to my soul.” –Psalm 94:18
You hear O Lord, the desires of the afflicted. You encourage them and listen to their cry.” –Psalm 10:17
“You are a hiding place for me; You, Lord, preserve me from trouble, You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance.” –Psalm 32:7 (Amp)
“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” –Revelation 7:17
Jo(Prather)Cleasby says
Kurt – We are so very sorry for your loss. I too, have been following Kristen’s blog, ever since Kerrie shared with me her diagnosis. She is an amazing woman of God. May you find comfort in her peace and know that she is no longer suffering and in the ever-loving arms of Our Saviour Jesus Christ. Hugs and prayers to you and your family and to the Sauder family in Tremont, also for Kristen’s extended family.
Lolo says
Kurt, just reading the comments from all these dear friends is a Blessing! What an impact you and Kristen have had on so many lives. My daughter Bonnie has been deeply moved by our loss of Kristen. She posted Isaiah 41:10 on her Facebook page as a comfort in this difficult time:
“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Praying for His peace and comfort for you and the “kiddos.”
Miss her so much….love you so much.
Lolo
Becky says
Kristen’s testimony and legacy is eternal and enduring…..and will only continue to grow more powerful and fruitful with time. The Lord surely watches over His godly ones, and over His Word to perform it, and to perfect that which concerns us. Praise the Lord for Kristen’s faithfulness and obedience to her precious Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Our prayers will continue to lift all of you up to our Father, knowing that through His precious Son, and by the power of His Spirit, He will guard and keep each of you, comfort and sustain you, and bring you into a settled place…..where His Peace that passes all understanding will prevail. God bless you. May He give you rest, and times of refreshing in His very Presence throughout these days of grieving, yet not without HOPE~ The precious seed and testimony of Kristen’s life will not abide alone, but will abound towards much fruit for the kingdom…..fruit that surely will REMAIN, to the glory of Jesus Christ!
Duncan Russell says
Malia and I are praying for your strength, bro. -Duncan
Tony Gore says
Kurt, as I prayed for you and Kristen and your family, the one word that God gave me was “Discovery.” There was a picture of Kristen pushing “further still” in her understanding of who God was — dying like she lived — seeking deeper dependence and knowledge of who God is. She is in His Presence now — further still — discovering Him in ways we can only imagine.
The other aspect of that “discovery” was for you and for the kids. Discovering God’s goodness and provision in a new (albeit painful and challenging) way.
May we all discover more of God’s goodness and grace through the immense grief we carry as we grieve the loss of a beautiful woman — your lovely wife — and the kid’s Godly mother. Our loss is Heaven’s gain. Grieving with you brother,
~ Tony
Kathy Suggs says
Praying that the Lord will comfort, strengthen and give you His peace as only He can.
Barbara Brownfield says
Kurt, praying for you and the children now and in the days to come. Hold each other close and share beautiful memories. Father, thank you for Kristen and the Sauder family.
Gus Castillo says
Kurt,
I can’t imagine how difficult life has been for the past several months. Your family has truly been an inspiration and I give you my deepest condolences. I feel for you tremendously and my heart breaks, however it is also a tremendous inspiration.
Please let me know if I can do anything for you.
I am praying for your family. God bless you and your family!!
(Here’s a song that made me think of you. http://youtu.be/tTdqdOC2DtI)
Tad Douglas says
Kurt – Kathy and I will keep your family in our prayers. Kristen was a powerful and effective minister for Jesus with a legacy that will long endure. I heard you say many times that you married up. It is easy to see why you say that. You two were a great team, and you each helped to multiply the other’s work. God bless your family and your ministry. Kristen will not be forgotten!
Karen & Rod Rodriguez says
What an inspiration and legacy Kristen left and will continue to live on through so many people. Praying God’s peace over you and the family. Our prayers and love…
The Rodriguez’s
Page and Kevin says
Oh Kurt…we love you all more than we could ever express. And we grieve deeply with you as we miss dearly your precious, beautiful bride. We stand beside you now and always, and as we battled so fervently in prayer for Kristen’s healing we now pray just as boldly that God would be faithful to carry you and the kids, and show his faithfulness to comfort and heal your broken hearts….until you can hold her again. We love you. Please Jesus, come quickly!
Cindy wright says
So sorry to hear this news. Brian and I are praying for you and your family. I hope you receive an enormous amount of love from the people around you and feel God carrying you through this time.
Lots of love & prayers from,
The wrights
Tom and Sandy says
Kurt and family,our hearts go out to you and your family.What a servant of God Kristen was.We are sadden for you and yours,but rejoice in knowing she has victory now with our Lord and Saviour.Peace and comfort to you and your family.